4 most likely replacements for Thibaut Courtois at Chelsea

Real Madrid have long been embroiled in the pursuit of a goalkeeper that dates back to 2014 when David de Gea's rumoured move fell through, owing to a faulty fax machine. Ever since then, Los Blancos have been linked with a host of shot-stoppers in the transfer windows that have gone by as a replacement for the erratic Keylor Navas.

However, things look different now. In the ongoing transfer market, reports across Europe suggest that Real Madrid have almost signed Thibaut Courtois, who recently won the Golden Glove in Russia.

The Belgian has only one year remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge and has betrayed little intimation in recent months that he will extend his contract.

Real Madrid, who have won the Champions League for three consecutive seasons, have a long-held interest in Courtois, who has made the deal all the more possible with his following statements.

"My personal situation is related to the city of Madrid."

"My two children live there with their mum. I have my daughter every day on FaceTime. She often tells me that she misses me. My son is still too small to communicate like that.

"Whenever I have the opportunity, I try to return to Spain. As a situation, it is not always easy. Yes, my heart is in Madrid. It is logical and understandable."

Consequently, Chelsea are already looking at replacements for the 26-year-old and would prefer to get their man before allowing the Belgian to go.

On that note, here are the 4 most likely alternatives to Thibaut Courtois.

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#4 Jasper Cillessen

Jasper Cillessen

Jasper Cillessen made one of the biggest mistakes of his life by deciding against staying at Ajax in 2016 and agreeing on a move to Barcelona. Since his arrival, the better part of his career has gone into watching the games from the sidelines, with Marc-André ter Stegen usurping him by establishing himself as the Blaugrana’s undisputed first-choice.

And Chelsea could be the club set to prise him away from Catalunya amid claims that Maurizio Sarri is eyeing him as a replacement for Thibaut Courtois. As a result, Cillessen has managed just two La Liga starts over the course of his two seasons at the Camp Nou and wishes to leave the club this summer.

#3 Kasper Schmeichel

Kasper Schmeichel was awe-inspiring at the World Cup

By virtue of his exploits in Russia for the Denmark national team, Schmeichel has merchandised himself as one of the finest keepers in the football world. The 31-year-old enjoyed a stellar World Cup campaign, as he only conceded two goals while he saved three penalties in his last game against Croatia.

According to reports, Chelsea are weighing on a move for the Danish glovesman as the ultimate backstop, in case Courtois bids adieu to his current club.

The Pensioners have also been urged by Craig Burley, the ex-Chelsea midfielder, who wants to see his erstwhile side move for the Denmark international.

"He is a good shot stopper. Chelsea need a goalkeeper who is good at shot stopping and coming out," he said.

#2 Jack Butland

Jack Butland

Jack Butland is another player vying for the goalkeeping berth at Stamford Bridge in the wake of Thibaut Courtois' potential exit.

The English net-minder remained largely unacknowledged in view of Stoke City's embarrassing relegation from the Premier League last season, which is a consequential reason why Butland is seeking a move away from the Potters.

In the 2017/18 season, the former Birmingham City star made 142 saves, which was the most among the goalkeepers who played in the Premier League. He also kept six league clean sheets and was at fault individually for just one of the goals he let in.

#1 Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford

As per reports, Jordan Pickford has topped Chelsea's wish list of goalkeeping targets, if Courtois leaves the club this summer.

Nevertheless, the Toffees will be desperate to keep hold of their first-choice goalkeeper, who they signed for £30 million last summer, and it will likely require a hefty amount to coax Pickford away particularly after his sterling performances in Russia.

An interesting stat which evidences his prowess between the sticks is that the 24-year-old has made the highest number of saves since the start of the 2016/17 Premier League season.

With the age on his side, the Everton goalkeeper could go on to make a name for himself under the tutelage of Maurizio Sarri.